Hi Fran, I have twins, whom are 4 and 1 is autistic and 1 is not ,but son who is not autistic is also copying his autistic brother. He is typical and in a peer program at school, and I think he copies him(the teachers agreee) because every time the autistic son does something correctly there is tons of praise, and I think the other siblings want the attention so they start to emulate (bad & good) behaviors. But don't worry too much. In the next year or so when you can start to explain things to him that he may undertstand, I do think he will let up on these behaviors quite a bit. But I do understand, because I am going through the same thing. Plus littler siblings always look up to the older ones (they don't know or think there is anything wrong with them). Good luck :). ↑ |
Hi Fran, one more thing. THe teachers did recommend that I have my typical son around other typical children 1-2 times a wk, so they see other childrens behaviors, not just autistic children's behaviors. Hope that helps. ↑ |
Thanks to Dianna for your response. It is nice to know that I am not alone with this problem. And I agree with everything you said! I try to give equal time to both boys, but in the end I know my younger one sees the extra effort I give to my 4 year old, and he probably is acting out to get my attention. My 2 year old does get around some typical kids each week and that is important too! I guess we just have to hang in there and things will get better as they get older! Thanks again. ↑ |